What to Do in Mexico City during Día de Muertos: Parades, ofrendas, and celebrations for everyone

Día de Muertos is one of Mexico’s most iconic traditions—and without a doubt, one of the most anticipated celebrations for locals and visitors alike.

When is Día de Muertos celebrated?

In 2025, Día de Muertos falls on Sunday, November 2, though festivities begin days earlier. November 1, All Saints’ Day, is dedicated to the souls of children. During this time, Mexico City fills with color, music, cempasúchil flowers, ofrendas, and parades that honor those who have passed. If you’re wondering what to do in Mexico City during Día de Muertos 2025, here’s your guide to the city’s top events.

Grand Día de Muertos Parade 2025

The city’s traditional Día de Muertos Parade returns with a creative theme: The Art of Drag and Lucha Libre. More than a thousand artists, floats, giant figures, and performers will take over the main avenues of downtown Mexico City in a visual spectacle that blends culture, inclusion, and tradition—a perfect plan for the whole family.
When: November 1
Where: From Puerta de los Leones in Chapultepec to the Zócalo

Monumental Ofrenda at the Zócalo

Every year, Mexico City’s Zócalo transforms into the spiritual heart of the celebration with its Monumental Ofrenda. In 2025, it will be dedicated to the 700th anniversary of the founding of Mexico-Tenochtitlán. The installation will pay tribute to Tonantzin, the Mother Goddess, featuring elements inspired by the Red Queen, chinampas, and pre-Hispanic symbols that combine contemporary art and ancient tradition.

When: October 25 to November 2

Mega Procession of Catrinas

One of the most photogenic and anticipated events of the season, the Mega Procession gathers thousands of participants dressed as catrinas and catrines, with elaborate makeup and elegant costumes inspired by Mexico’s vision of death. Professional makeup artists, street performances, and live music fill the streets with life and creativity.

When: October 26

UNAM’s Mega Ofrenda

Each year, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) presents one of the country’s largest and most inspiring ofrendas. In 2025, the theme will be Traces of Our History, reflecting on migration, exile, and displacement. It’s an artistic, educational, and deeply moving event that connects tradition with social awareness.

Día de Muertos at Chapultepec Forest

Chapultepec hosts a festival packed with activities for all ages—from the Hacienda Maldita, a haunted house inspired by Mexican legends, to ofrendas dedicated to famous composers. Every weekend, you’ll find parades, food stalls, art exhibits, and cultural events at venues like Aztlán Park, Teatro Centenario Coyoacán, and the Kaluz Museum.

When: October 7 to November 6

La Llorona in Xochimilco

The open-air play La Llorona: The Last Beat of the Water has become a seasonal classic. Aboard a trajinera, visitors experience an immersive show filled with lights, songs, and ancestral sounds—a mystical and traditional way to celebrate Día de Muertos.

When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October

Where: Cuemanco Pier

Journey to Mictlán

Inspired by Mexica mythology, this immersive experience takes visitors through the nine levels of the underworld using light, digital art, and sensory environments. A must for fans of interactive art and spectacular photo ops.

When: September 26 to November 17

Where: Fantasy Lab, Metrópoli Patriotismo

Catrina Fest at Aztlán Park

The new Aztlán Park will celebrate Catrina Fest, a free event featuring dance, theater, parades, exhibitions, and evening shows. This year’s edition will include a musical ofrenda honoring great Mexican composers and a themed race on November 1.

When: October 7 to November 6

Festival de las Almas in Valle de Bravo

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, this festival in Valle de Bravo is a perfect escape. Expect music, dance, theater, and a sunset parade on November 1. It’s one of the State of Mexico’s most iconic events, filled with art and tradition.
When: October 25 to November 2

Mexicráneos

One of the season’s most iconic exhibits, Mexicráneos features over 100 monumental skulls created by Mexican artists, turning Xochimilco into an open-air gallery. A colorful, creative celebration of life through art.

When: Until October 31

Where: Xochimilco Ecological Park

Zombie Walk

Now in its 18th year, the Zombie Walk remains one of the city’s most fun and playful events. Hundreds of participants dressed as the undead parade through the streets to the rhythm of Thriller. A great option for those looking for a lighthearted, urban celebration.

When: October 18

Where: From the Monument to the Revolution to the Zócalo

Experience Día de Muertos from the heart of the City

After a day filled with color, parades, and tradition, there’s nothing like coming back to a space that feels like home. Kukun offers apartments in some of Mexico City’s most emblematic neighborhoods—Roma, Condesa, Juárez, and Polanco—perfect for enjoying the city and staying close to its main ofrendas and parades. Here, you’ll find comfort, design, and an authentic local experience to live Día de Muertos like a true resident of Mexico City.